Toponymic Surnames
Toponymic surnames are family names derived from specific places or geographical features. These names often indicate the origin of a family or the location where they lived. For example, a surname like Hill may suggest that the family lived near a hill, while Brooks could indicate proximity to a brook or stream.
Such surnames can provide insights into a family's history and migration patterns. They are common in many cultures, with variations found in different languages. In England, for instance, surnames like Wood or Field reflect the natural landscape, while in Spain, names like Del Río signify a connection to rivers.